Paul O'Grady always feared he wouldn't live to be old.
The one-of-a-kind comedian and broadcaster had a fittingly unique approach to death, and although he knew he might not have long, he wasn't afraid.
The TV and radio star passed away March 28, 2023, with his husband Andre Portasio, and of course, his beloved dogs by his side. One year on, and many still find it difficult to believe Paul is really gone - but it will likely be some comfort to remember that he looked ahead to the end fearlessly, while counting his many blessings.
Paul, who sadly suffered many years of ill health, once opened up to the Mirror about feeling as though death was constantly nipping at his heels and would one day catch up with him.
Paul O'Grady feared he would die before his time (Dave Benett/Getty Images)
Paul died last March at the age of 67 (Getty Images)Predicting that he wouldn't see 60, Paul said: "I do count my blessings. I have had two heart attacks, and if I get to 60 that will be amazing. I don't fear anything nowadays.
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"There has to be an angel out there. They are trying to steer me out of trouble 24 hours a day."
On one occasion Paul's heart stopped in an ambulance and he had to be resuscitated. When asked what happens when you die, Paul revealed there was just 'nothing'. He continued: "Everyone asks: 'Did you see anything?' No, sorry. Nothing. No heavenly choirs, no light at the end of the tunnel."
Announcing the tragic news of Paul's death in a statement at the time, husband Andre said: "It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening.
Paul died surrounded by his beloved dogs"We ask, at this difficult time, that whilst you celebrate his life you also respect our privacy as we come to terms with this loss. He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion. I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years."
The Lily Savage star was 'full of life' and "surrounded by his beloved dogs " just hours before he died, according to his pal Malcolm Prince. The comedian's colleague, who produced Paul's show on BBC Radio 2, saw his friend just hours before he died.
Speaking about the last time he saw Paul, he tweeted: "Surrounded by his beloved dogs, he was laughing, smiling, and full of life. He was so proud of 'Annie', so happy to be back on Boom Radio, and he was looking forward to so many new projects."
"And now he's gone. I can't believe it. We have lost a unique talent - and I've lost a dear friend. We were all lucky to have Paul in our lives. My heart goes out to Andre, Paul's family, and friend. Oh, how I'll miss him."
Paul quit his Radio 2 job just seven months before his shock death after admitting he " wasn't really happy " with controversial changes at the BBC station. This included sharing his show on a '13 weeks on, 13 weeks off' basis with comedian Rob Beckett. During his last ever radio show, aired Sunday, August 14, 2023, Paul reflected on his time at the station alongside producer Malcolm.
As he began bidding farewell to his loyal listeners, he joked: "This is one of the longest jobs I've ever held down – I only came in to do a few hours for Elaine Paige." Paul and Malcolm then announced they were joining Boom Radio with Paul set to host a one-off Easter Sunday radio show.
Speaking ahead of the show, the late star said: "It's great to be working with the team at Boom again. It already feels like my new radio home."
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You can catch The Life and Death of Lily Savage and Paul O’Grady’s Great Elephant Adventure on Friday, March 29, at 9pm ITV 1
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